Secondary battery

Abstract

A secondary battery is provided. The secondary battery includes: an electrode assembly; a case including an open first surface, the case configured to accommodate the electrode assembly; the first cover plate covers the first surface; a first terminal electrically connected to a first electrode tab of the electrode assembly and configured to penetrate the first cap plate, the first terminal including a first terminal plate and a first group of protrusions integrally formed; and a second terminal electrically connected to a second electrode tab of the electrode assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a secondary battery. Background Art

[0002] Unlike primary batteries that are not designed to be (re)charged, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to discharge and recharge. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smart phones, feature phones, laptop computers, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving electric motors in hybrid and electric vehicles and as power sources for storing electricity (e.g., home and / or utility-scale electricity storage). A secondary battery generally includes an electrode assembly composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a case that houses the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] In a secondary battery, heat can be generated due to, for example, electrolyte reactions and various factors during charging and discharging. Excessive heat in the secondary battery can lead to fire or explosion, so it is desirable to reduce or minimize heat generation in the secondary battery or to quickly dissipate the generated heat to inhibit excessive temperature rise of the secondary battery. In addition, depending on external conditions and charge-discharge states, the secondary battery exhibits volume changes, swelling, and shrinkage. Therefore, it is desirable to design a secondary battery that can ensure stability even in such volume changes.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this background art section is for enhancing the understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and thus, it may include information that does not constitute relevant (or prior) art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a secondary battery including a terminal in which a terminal plate and a protrusion are integrally formed to connect the terminal to an electrode tab of an electrode assembly.

[0006] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above problems, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other problems not mentioned herein and aspects and features of the present disclosure that will solve such problems through the following description of the present disclosure.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a secondary battery including: an electrode assembly; a case including an open first surface, the case being configured to house the electrode assembly; a first cover plate covering the first surface; a first terminal electrically connected to a first electrode tab of the electrode assembly and configured to penetrate the first cover plate, the first terminal including a first terminal plate and a first set of protrusions integrally formed; and a second terminal electrically connected to a second electrode tab of the electrode assembly.

[0008] In some embodiments, the secondary battery further includes: a first current collector that electrically connects the first electrode tab to the first terminal, and the first set of protrusions is fixed by penetrating the first cover plate and the first current collector with the first set of protrusions.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first current collector, the first terminal plate, and the first set of protrusions are formed of the same material.

[0010] In some embodiments, the same material is aluminum.

[0011] In some embodiments, a gasket is located between the first terminal plate and the first current collector to seal the hollow portion of the first cover plate through which the first set of protrusions passes.

[0012] In some embodiments, an upper insulating member is located between the first terminal plate and the first cover plate.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first set of protrusions is formed to extend from the first terminal plate.

[0014] In some embodiments, the protrusions in the first set of protrusions are formed along the long side of the first terminal plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the housing further includes an open second surface opposite the first surface, the secondary battery further includes a second cover plate covering the second surface, the second terminal penetrates the second cover plate, and the length of the long side of the first terminal plate is equal to or greater than half of the length of the long side of the first cover plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the length of the short side of the first terminal plate is equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the first cover plate.

[0017] In some embodiments, each protrusion in the first set of protrusions includes: a first sub-protrusion having a first cross-sectional area and formed to extend from the first terminal plate; and a second sub-protrusion having a second cross-sectional area and formed to extend from the first sub-protrusion, and wherein the first cross-sectional area is greater than the second cross-sectional area.

[0018] In some embodiments, the secondary battery further includes: a first current collector that electrically connects the first electrode tab to the first terminal, wherein the first sub-protrusion penetrates the first cover plate, and the second sub-protrusion penetrates the first current collector.

[0019] In some embodiments, the secondary battery further includes: a first current collector that electrically connects the first electrode tab to the first terminal, wherein the second cross-sectional area is defined such that the shortest distance between the long side of the first current collector and the second sub-protrusion is equal to or greater than the minimum welding width.

[0020] In some embodiments, the secondary battery further includes: a first current collector that electrically connects the first electrode tab to the first terminal, wherein an insulating member is located between the first cover plate and the first current collector, and the first sub-protrusion penetrates the insulating member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the housing further includes a second surface that is open and opposite to the first surface, and the secondary battery further includes: a second cover plate that covers the second surface; and a second current collector that electrically connects the second electrode tab to the second terminal, the second terminal penetrating the second cover plate, the second terminal including a second set of protrusions, a second terminal plate, and a third terminal plate that is in surface contact with the second terminal plate, the third terminal plate and the second set of protrusions being integrally formed, and the second set of protrusions being fixed by penetrating the second cover plate and the second current collector.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second terminal plate and the third terminal plate are formed of different materials, the third terminal plate and the second set of protrusions are formed of the same material, and the second set of protrusions and the second current collector are formed of the same material.

[0023] In some embodiments, the second terminal plate is formed of aluminum, and the third terminal plate, the second set of protrusions, and the second current collector are formed of copper.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second terminal plate and the third terminal plate are joined together by diffusion welding or cladding welding.

[0025] In some embodiments, the housing further includes: a first long side wall portion and a second long side wall portion that are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other; and a first short side wall portion and a second short side wall portion that are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other, the area of each of the first short side wall portion and the second short side wall portion being smaller than the area of each of the first long side wall portion and the second long side wall portion.

[0026] In some embodiments, the secondary battery further includes: a second current collector that electrically connects the second electrode tab and the second terminal, wherein the second terminal penetrates the first cover plate, wherein the second terminal includes a second set of protrusions, a second terminal plate, and a third terminal plate that contacts the surface of the second terminal plate, wherein the third terminal plate and the second set of protrusions are integrally formed, and wherein the second set of protrusions is fixed by penetrating the first cover plate and the second current collector with the second set of protrusions.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, terminals are provided at opposite side surfaces of the housing, and an exhaust unit is provided at the bottom of the housing. Accordingly, space is effectively utilized.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the increased volume of the terminals improves (e.g., increases) heat dissipation, and the increased welding area of the bus bars of the secondary battery module can reduce heat generation.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a set of protrusions is formed to extend from the terminal plate. Accordingly, by eliminating the need to separately provide a terminal and a fixing member for fixing the terminal, the material cost can be reduced.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a plurality of protrusions are used to fix the terminal. Accordingly, the torque strength of the terminal is improved (e.g., increased) to prevent the terminal from bending or substantially reducing its bending during use of the secondary battery.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional area of the protrusion penetrating the current collector is adjusted. Accordingly, a reduced or minimum welding width of the current collector can be ensured while maintaining the degree of improvement (e.g., increase) in the torque strength of the terminal obtained by the protrusion.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a first terminal and a second terminal are formed at opposite side surfaces of the secondary battery, and an exhaust unit is formed at a surface (e.g., bottom surface) where the terminals are not formed. Accordingly, the secondary battery module is configured to have improved (e.g., enhanced) insulation performance and space efficiency, while allowing the gas discharged through the exhaust unit to be smoothly discharged from the bottom surface of the secondary battery where the terminals are not formed.

[0033] However, aspects and features of the present disclosure are not limited to the above aspects and features, and other aspects and features not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure together with the detailed description of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the drawings: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a case according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a side surface of a secondary battery provided with a first terminal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a side surface of a secondary battery in which a first terminal having a two-step structure is positioned according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a current collector according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a side surface of a secondary battery provided with a second terminal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a side surface of a secondary battery provided with a second terminal having a two-step structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a secondary battery having a first terminal and a second terminal formed on one surface thereof according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a surface of a secondary battery having a first terminal and a second terminal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0035] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be construed restrictively as limited to their ordinary meanings or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical idea of the present disclosure based on the principle that the inventor can, as his / her own lexicographer, appropriately define terms so as to best describe his / her invention.

[0036] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only some embodiments of the present disclosure and do not represent all the technical spirits, aspects, and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0037] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "connected to", or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intervening elements or layers. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on", "directly connected to", or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. For example, when a first element is described as being "coupled" to or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly coupled to or directly connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly coupled to or indirectly connected to the second element via one or more intervening elements.

[0038] In the figures, in order to clearly illustrate, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc. may be exaggerated. The same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In addition, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, the use of "may" relates to "one or more embodiments of the present disclosure". Expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." modify the entire list of elements after a list of elements and do not modify individual elements in the list. When a phrase such as "at least one of A, B, and C", "at least one of A, B, or C", "at least one selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C", or "at least one selected from among A, B, and C" is used to denote a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase can refer to any suitable combination (or subset) and all suitable combinations (or subsets) of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term "use" and its variants can be considered to be synonymous with the term "utilize" and its variants, respectively. As used herein, the terms "substantially", "about", and similar terms are used as approximate terms and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent deviations of measured or calculated values that would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0039] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0040] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "under", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature shown in the figures to another (other) element or feature. It will be understood that the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as "under" or "below" other elements or features will then be oriented "above" or "over" the said other elements or features. Thus, the term "under" can cover both the above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0041] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a" and "an" are also intended to include the plural forms. It will also be understood that when the terms "comprises", "comprising", and / or their variants are used in this specification, it is specified that there are the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0042] In addition, any numerical range disclosed and / or recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges of the same numerical precision contained within the recited range. For example, the range "1.0 to 10.0" is intended to include all sub-ranges between the recited minimum value 1.0 and the recited maximum value 10.0 (and including the recited minimum value 1.0 and the recited maximum value 10.0), that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Thus, the applicant reserves the right to modify the present specification and claims to expressly recite any sub-ranges contained within the ranges expressly recited herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification such that a modification to expressly recite any such sub-ranges will be in compliance.

[0043] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc. as "identical" may mean that they are "substantially identical". Thus, the phrase "substantially identical" may include cases having a deviation considered low in the art (e.g., a deviation of 5% or less). Additionally, when a certain parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, this may mean that it is uniform in terms of the average value.

[0044] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0045] Arranging any element "above (or below)" or "on (beneath)" another element may mean that the any element may be disposed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the another element, and yet another element may also be disposed between the another element and the any element disposed on (or beneath) the another element.

[0046] Furthermore, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as being "linked", "coupled", or "connected" to another component, the components may be "coupled", "linked", or "connected" directly to each other, or another component may be "disposed" between the components.

[0047] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise stated, when stating "A and / or B", it means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any combination or all combinations of the recited multiple items. Unless otherwise specified, when stating "C to D", it means C or greater and D or less.

[0048] Figure 1 FIG. is a perspective view of a secondary battery 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The secondary battery 100 may include an electrode assembly, a case accommodating the electrode assembly, a first cover plate 120, a second cover plate opposite the first cover plate 120, a first terminal 130, and a second terminal.

[0049] As Figure 1 shown, an exhaust unit 110 may be formed at one surface of the case. For example, the exhaust unit 110 may be formed at the bottom surface of the case. Here, the bottom surface may refer to the surface facing downward when the secondary battery is installed.

[0050] In some embodiments, the housing of the secondary battery may accommodate an electrode assembly, and an electrolyte solution may be provided in the housing. For example, the housing may be formed with an open first surface and an open second surface opposite the open first surface, and the electrode assembly may be accommodated in the housing. Here, the open surface and the open side surface may refer to a surface having an opening (i.e., the entire open surface). The first cover plate 120 may cover the open first surface of the housing, and the second cover plate may cover the open second surface of the housing. Additionally, an injection port 122 may be formed in the first cover plate 120, and the electrolyte solution may be injected into the housing through the injection port 122. Figure 1 The injection port 122 is shown as being formed in the first cover plate 120, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. After the electrolyte injection is completed, the injection port 122 may be sealed using a sealing member such as a plug.

[0051] The first cover plate 120 may have a first electrode tab electrically connected to the electrode assembly and a first terminal 130 penetrating the first cover plate 120. Similarly, the second cover plate may have a second electrode tab electrically connected to the electrode assembly and a second terminal penetrating the second cover plate. In Figure 1 it, the first terminal 130 is shown as being the positive terminal, and the second terminal is the negative terminal. The positive terminal indication (+) may be formed on the first cover plate 120 by engraving or the like. Similarly, the negative terminal indication (-) may be formed on the second cover plate by engraving or the like.

[0052] In some embodiments, the length of the long side of the first terminal 130 and the length of the long side of the second terminal may be respectively equal to or greater than half of the length of the long side of the first cover plate 120 and half of the length of the long side of the second cover plate. In some examples, the length of the short side of the first terminal 130 and the length of the short side of the second terminal may be respectively equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the first cover plate 120 and half of the length of the short side of the second cover plate. This improves (e.g., increases) heat dissipation due to the increased volume of the terminals and reduces heat generation due to the increased welding area of the bus bars of the secondary battery module.

[0053] In some embodiments, the exhaust unit 110 may be formed at one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the housing. The exhaust unit 110 may be configured to open in response to a situation where the internal pressure of the secondary battery 100 exceeds a set or predetermined threshold pressure. In such an example, the threshold pressure may be set differently according to the application, material, purpose, etc. of the secondary battery 100. For example, for a secondary battery in which the internal pressure of the housing is on average maintained at a relatively high pressure during use due to a short charge-discharge cycle compared to other applications, a relatively high threshold pressure may be set. In other examples, for a secondary battery manufactured with a material and / or design having relatively high heat resistance and / or pressure resistance, a relatively high threshold pressure may be set. Conversely, for a secondary battery manufactured with a material and / or design having relatively low heat resistance and / or pressure resistance, a relatively low threshold pressure may be set. In some examples, the exhaust unit 110 may be configured to open in response to a situation where the internal temperature exceeds a set or predetermined threshold temperature. With such a configuration, the exhaust unit 110 can prevent or substantially reduce the possibility of explosion of the secondary battery 100 and / or prevent or substantially reduce the possibility of a cascading exothermic reaction of the secondary batteries arranged adjacent to the secondary battery 100.

[0054] Figure 1 A single exhaust unit 110 formed at the central portion of one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the housing is shown. However, the number of exhaust units is not limited thereto, and any number of exhaust units may be formed at any position on one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the housing. For example, two or more exhaust units may be formed at one surface of the housing.

[0055] In Figure 1 it is shown that the secondary battery is a prismatic battery cell having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, instead of a hexahedron shape, the secondary battery 100 may have various suitable shapes such as a polyhedron shape, a cylindrical shape, etc.

[0056] As described above, the first terminal 130 and the second terminal are formed at opposite surfaces of the secondary battery 100, and the exhaust unit 110 is formed at the surface (e.g., the bottom surface) where the terminals are not formed. With such a configuration, the secondary battery module can be configured to have improved (e.g., enhanced) insulation performance and space efficiency while allowing the gas discharged through the exhaust unit 110 to be smoothly discharged from the bottom surface of the secondary battery 100 where the terminals are not formed.

[0057] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the housing 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As Figure 2As shown, the housing 200 may be formed with two open side surfaces facing each other. For example, the housing 200 may include an open first side surface 210 and an open second side surface 220 opposite to the open first side surface 210. The housing 200 may be formed of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel-plated steel, etc. The electrode assembly may be accommodated within the housing 200, a first cover plate may cover the open first side surface 210 of the housing 200, and a second cover plate may cover the open second side surface 220 of the housing 200.

[0058] In some embodiments, the housing 200 may be a rectangular parallelepiped having two open opposite side surfaces. In such an example, the housing 200 may include a first long side wall portion 230 and a second long side wall portion that face each other and are spaced apart from each other, and a first short side wall portion 240 and a second short side wall portion that face each other and are spaced apart from each other. Here, the area of the first short side wall portion 240 and the area of the second short side wall portion may be respectively smaller than the area of the first long side wall portion 230 and the area of the second long side wall portion.

[0059] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a secondary battery 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As Figure 3 As shown, the secondary battery 300 may include an electrode assembly 310, a housing 320, an exhaust unit 330, cover plates 342, 344, terminals 350, 360, and an electrolyte solution 370. The housing 320 may form the overall appearance of the secondary battery 300 and may include a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel-plated steel, etc. (e.g., made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel-plated steel, etc.). Additionally, the housing 320 may provide a space for accommodating the electrode assembly 310.

[0060] The electrode assembly 310 may be accommodated inside the housing 320 together with the electrolyte solution 370. The electrode assembly 310 may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. For example, the electrode assembly 310 may have a structure in which the positive electrode and the negative electrode are wound after interposing a separator as an insulator between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. Each of the positive electrode and the negative electrode may include a current collector, the current collector including a thin metal foil (e.g., made of a thin metal foil), the thin metal foil having a coated portion on which an active material is coated and an uncoated portion on which the active material is not coated. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 310 may have a structure in which the positive electrode and the negative electrode each including a plurality of sheets (e.g., made of a plurality of sheets) are alternately stacked and the separator is disposed therebetween.

[0061] The exhaust unit 330 may be formed at one surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the housing 320 and may be opened when necessary to release gas.

[0062] The first cover plate 342 and the second cover plate 344 can respectively cover two opposite open side surfaces of the housing 320. The first cover plate 342 can have a first terminal (e.g., a first electrode terminal) 350, and the first terminal 350 is electrically connected to the first electrode tab of the electrode assembly 310 and penetrates the first cover plate 342. Similarly, the second cover plate 344 can have a second terminal (e.g., a second electrode terminal) 360, and the second terminal 360 is electrically connected to the second electrode tab of the electrode assembly 310 and penetrates the second cover plate 344.

[0063] For example, the terminals 350, 360 can respectively contact the current collectors 392, 394 that are electrically connected to the electrode assembly 310 within the housing 320, such that each of the terminals 350, 360 can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly 310. For example, the first terminal 350 can include a first terminal plate 352 and a first set of protrusions 354, and the first set of protrusions 354 is fixed by extending the protrusions 354 through the first cover plate 342 and the first current collector 392. Similarly, the second terminal 360 includes a second terminal plate 362 and a second set of protrusions 364, and the second set of protrusions 364 can be fixed by extending the protrusions 364 through the second cover plate 344 and the second current collector 394.

[0064] One of the first terminal 350 and the second terminal 360 can be a positive terminal, and the other can be a negative terminal. For example, the first terminal 350 can be a positive terminal, and the second terminal 360 can be a negative terminal.

[0065] The injection port 380 can be formed at the first cover plate 342. The electrolyte solution 370 can be injected into the housing 320 through the injection port 380. Additionally, after injecting the electrolyte solution 370, a sealing stopper can be assembled and installed into the injection port 380 to prevent or substantially reduce the leakage of the electrolyte solution 370.

[0066] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of one side surface 400 of a secondary battery provided with a first terminal 460 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The first terminal 460 can correspond to Figure 3 the first terminal 350. Additionally, the first terminal 460 can be a positive terminal.

[0067] The first terminal 460 can be in direct contact with the current collector 410 that is electrically connected to the electrode assembly within the housing of the secondary battery, such that the first terminal 460 can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly. For example, the first terminal 460 can include a terminal plate 462 and a set of protrusions 464. Here, the set of protrusions 464 can be fixed by extending the protrusions 464 through the cover plate 430 and the current collector 410.

[0068] In some embodiments, the terminal plate 462 may be integrally formed with a set of protrusions 464. In such an example, the set of protrusions 464 may be formed to extend from the terminal plate 462. With such a configuration, the material cost can be reduced by eliminating the need to separately provide a terminal and a fixing member for fixing the terminal.

[0069] The set of protrusions 464 may include two or more protrusions. Each protrusion 464 may be formed along the long side of the terminal plate 462. By using a plurality of protrusions to fix the first terminal 460, the torque strength of the first terminal 460 is improved (e.g., increased) to prevent the first terminal 460 from bending or substantially reducing its bending during the use of the secondary battery. The number of protrusions in the set of protrusions 464 may be determined based on the length of the long side of the cover plate 430 or the length of the long side of the terminal plate 462. The set of protrusions 464 may be formed such that the protrusions are arranged at intervals (e.g., regular intervals). However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0070] The length of the long side of the terminal plate 462 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the long side of the cover plate 430. In some examples, the length of the short side of the terminal plate 462 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the cover plate 430. This allows for improved (e.g., increased) heat dissipation of the secondary battery and reduces the heat generation of the secondary battery. For example, the length of the long side of the cover plate 430 may be about 100 mm, and the length of the long side of the terminal plate 462 may be about 50 mm. In addition, the length of the short side of the cover plate 430 may be about 30 mm, and the length of the short side of the terminal plate 462 may be about 15 mm.

[0071] The current collector 410, the terminal plate 462, and the set of protrusions 464 may be formed of the same or substantially the same material. In such an example, the same material may include aluminum (Al) or may be made of aluminum (Al) (e.g., entirely made of aluminum (Al)).

[0072] The insulating member 420 may be inserted between the cover plate 430 and the current collector 410. The washer 440 may be inserted between the terminal plate 462 and the insulating member 420 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 430 through which one of the set of protrusions 464 passes. Additionally, the upper insulating member 450 may be disposed between the terminal plate 462 and the cover plate 430.

[0073] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing one side surface 500 of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure in which a first terminal 560 having a two-step structure is positioned. The first terminal 560 may correspond to Figure 3 the first terminal 350. In addition, the first terminal 560 may be a positive terminal.

[0074] Figure 5Each protrusion in a group of protrusions may include a first sub - protrusion 564 and a second sub - protrusion 566. The first sub - protrusion 564 may have a first cross - sectional area (e.g., the cross - sectional area in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the first sub - protrusion 564), and may be formed to extend from the terminal plate 562. The second sub - protrusion 566 may have a second cross - sectional area (e.g., the cross - sectional area in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the second sub - protrusion 566), and may be formed to extend from the first sub - protrusion 564. In such an example, the first cross - sectional area may be larger than the second cross - sectional area. For example, the first sub - protrusion 564 may have a diameter of about 6.5 mm, and the second sub - protrusion 566 may have a diameter of about 5 mm. The terminal plate 562 may be integrally formed with the first sub - protrusion 564 and the second sub - protrusion 566.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first sub - protrusion 564 may be formed to extend through the cover plate 530. Additionally, the second sub - protrusion 566 may be formed to extend through the current collector 510 that electrically connects the electrode tab to the first terminal 560.

[0076] The insulator 520 may be inserted between the cover plate 530 and the current collector 510, and the first sub - protrusion 564 may penetrate the insulator 520. The washer 540 may be inserted between the terminal plate 562 and the insulator 520 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 530 that is penetrated by the first sub - protrusion 564. Additionally, the upper insulator 550 may be disposed between the terminal plate 562 and the cover plate 530.

[0077] Figure 6 is a cross - sectional view showing a current collector 600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The current collector 600 may correspond to Figure 5 the current collector 510, and may electrically connect the electrode tab and the terminal. Figure 6 The current collector 600 shown in

[0078] may represent the rear surface of the current collector 600, that is, the surface of the current collector 600 facing the inside of the secondary battery. Figure 5 The protrusion region 610 of the current collector 600 may refer to the region where the protrusion of the terminal plate (e.g.,

[0079] In order to weld the current collector 600, it is desirable to obtain a reduced or minimum welding width for welding at the current collector 600. That is, half of the length of the current collector 600 in the width direction (e.g., the length of the short side) excluding the length of the raised area 610 in the width direction needs to be greater than or equal to a set or predetermined minimum welding width.

[0080] In some embodiments, the area of the raised area 610 (e.g., Figure 5 the area of the second sub-raise 566 in Figure 5 ) can be determined such that the shortest distance d between the long side of the current collector 600 and the raised area 610 (e.g., the second sub-raise) is equal to or greater than a set or predetermined minimum welding width. With such a configuration, by only adjusting the cross-sectional area of the raise (e.g., the second sub-raise) penetrating the current collector 600, a minimum or reduced welding width of the current collector 600 can be ensured while maintaining the degree of improvement (e.g., increase) in the torque strength of the terminal obtained by the raise (e.g., Figure 5 the first sub-raise 564 in

[0081] Figure 7 ). In other words, by using a two-step raise with different diameters (e.g., a raise including Figure 3 the first sub-raise 564 and the second sub-raise 566), the welding area of the current collector can be increased or maximized even in a thin battery.

[0082] FIG. is a cross-sectional view of one side surface 700 of a secondary battery provided with a second terminal 760 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The second terminal 760 may correspond to

[0083] the second terminal 360 of

[0084] . In addition, the second terminal 760 may be a negative electrode terminal. The second terminal 760 may be in direct contact with a current collector 710 electrically connected to an electrode assembly within the housing of the secondary battery such that the second terminal 760 can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly. For example, the second terminal 760 may include a first terminal plate 762, a second terminal plate 764 in surface contact with the first terminal plate 762, and a set of raises 766. Here, the set of raises 766 can be fixed by extending the raises 766 through a cover plate 730 and the current collector 710.

[0083] In some embodiments, the second terminal plate 764 may be integrally formed with the set of raises 766. In such an example, the set of raises 766 may be formed to extend from the second terminal plate 764. With such a configuration, the material cost can be reduced by eliminating the need to separately provide a terminal and a fixing member for fixing the terminal.

[0084] A set of protrusions 766 may include two or more protrusions. Each protrusion 766 may be formed along the long side of the first terminal plate 762. By using a plurality of protrusions to fix the second terminal 760, the torque strength of the second terminal 760 is improved (e.g., increased), so that the second terminal 760 can be prevented from bending during the use of the secondary battery or its bending can be substantially reduced. The number of protrusions in a set of protrusions 766 may be determined based on the length of the long side of the cover plate 730 or the length of the long side of each of the first terminal plate 762 and the second terminal plate 764. A set of protrusions 766 may be formed such that the protrusions are arranged at intervals (e.g., regular intervals). However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0085] The length of the long side of the first terminal plate 762 and / or the length of the long side of the second terminal plate 764 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the long side of the cover plate 730. In some examples, the length of the short side of the first terminal plate 762 and / or the length of the short side of the second terminal plate 764 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the cover plate 730. This allows for improved (e.g., increased) heat dissipation of the secondary battery and reduces the heat generation of the secondary battery.

[0086] The current collector 710, the second terminal plate 764, and a set of protrusions 766 may be formed of the same or substantially the same material. For example, the current collector 710, the second terminal plate 764, and a set of protrusions 766 may include copper (Cu) or be made of copper (Cu) (e.g., entirely made of copper).

[0087] The first terminal plate 762 and the second terminal plate 764 may be formed of different materials. For example, the first terminal plate 762 may include aluminum or be made of aluminum (e.g., entirely made of aluminum).

[0088] In some embodiments, the first terminal plate 762 and the second terminal plate 764 may be joined together by using diffusion welding or cladding welding. This can reduce (e.g., minimize) the deformation of the plates when the first terminal plate 762 and the second terminal plate 764 are joined. Not limited thereto, the first terminal plate 762 and the second terminal plate 764 may be joined to each other in various suitable ways.

[0089] The insulating member 720 may be interposed between the cover plate 730 and the current collector 710. The washer 740 may be interposed between the second terminal plate 764 and the insulating member 720 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 730 that is penetrated by one of the set of protrusions 766. Additionally, the upper insulating member 750 may be disposed between the cover plate 730 and the second terminal plate 764.

[0090] Figure 8It is a cross-sectional view of one side surface 800 of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, provided with a second terminal 860 having a two-step structure. The second terminal 860 may include a first terminal plate 862, a second terminal plate 864 in surface contact with the first terminal plate 862, and a set of protrusions. Figure 8 Each protrusion in the set of protrusions may include a first sub-protrusion 866 and a second sub-protrusion 868. The first sub-protrusion 866 may have a first cross-sectional area and may be formed to extend from the second terminal plate 864. The second sub-protrusion 868 may have a second cross-sectional area and may be formed to extend from the first sub-protrusion 866. In such an example, the first cross-sectional area may be larger than the second cross-sectional area. The second terminal plate 864 may be integrally formed with the first sub-protrusion 866 and the second sub-protrusion 868.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first sub-protrusion 866 may be formed to extend through the cover plate 830. Additionally, the second sub-protrusion 868 may be formed to extend through the current collector 810 that electrically connects the electrode tab to the second terminal 860.

[0092] The insulator 820 may be interposed between the cover plate 830 and the current collector 810, and the first sub-protrusion 866 may penetrate the insulator 820. The washer 840 may be interposed between the second terminal plate 864 and the insulator 820 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 830 through which the first sub-protrusion 866 passes. Additionally, the upper insulator 850 may be interposed between the second terminal plate 864 and the cover plate 830.

[0093] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of a secondary battery 900 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, having a first terminal 930 and a second terminal 940 formed on one of its surfaces. The secondary battery 900 may include, but is not limited to, an electrode assembly, a housing 910 that houses the electrode assembly, a cover plate 920 coupled to the housing 910, a first terminal 930, and a second terminal 940.

[0094] The housing 910 may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape having an open top surface and an accommodation space formed therein. The open top surface of the housing 910 allows the electrode assembly and the electrolyte solution to be accommodated within the housing 910. The housing 910 may be composed of a rectangular bottom surface 912 and four side surfaces connected to the bottom surface 912. Among the four side surfaces, the side surface having a relatively large area may be referred to as the long side wall portion 914, and the side surface having a relatively small area may be referred to as the short side wall portion 916. For example, the electrode assembly accommodated within the housing 910 may be arranged such that the plate surface faces the long side wall portion 914. In the case where the electrode assembly is accommodated within the housing 910, the cover plate 920 may be coupled to the housing 910 and electrically connected to the electrode assembly.

[0095] The cover plate 920 may have a rectangular shape and may be formed of the same or substantially the same material as the housing 910. The cover plate 920 may be provided with a first terminal 930 and a second terminal 940, and the first terminal 930 and the second terminal 940 penetrate the cover plate 920 and may be electrically connected to the first electrode tab and the second electrode tab of the electrode assembly, respectively. The exhaust unit 922 of the cover plate 920 is used to discharge gas by opening when the internal pressure of the secondary battery 900 increases, and a general exhaust structure may be applied thereto.

[0096] It should be understood that Figure 9 the secondary battery 900 is not limited to the configurations shown and described, and may also include Figure 1 and Figure 3 the configurations described in

[0097] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a surface 1000 of a secondary battery having a first terminal 1060_1 and a second terminal 1060_2 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The first terminal 1060_1 may correspond to Figure 9 the first terminal 930 of Figure 9 and may be the positive terminal. The second terminal 1060_2 may correspond to Figure 9 the second terminal 940 of

[0098] The first terminal 1060_1 and the second terminal 1060_2 may be electrically connected to the electrode assembly by directly contacting the current collectors 1010_1, 1010_2 of the electrode assembly within the housing of the secondary battery, respectively. For example, the first terminal 1060_1 may include a terminal plate 1062_1 and a first set of protrusions 1066_1, and the second terminal 1060_2 may include a first terminal plate 1062_2, a second terminal plate 1064 in surface contact with the first terminal plate 1062_2, and a second set of protrusions 1066_2. Here, the sets of protrusions 1066_1, 1066_2 may be fixed by extending the protrusions 1066_1 and 1066_2 through the cover plate 1030 and the current collectors 1010_1, 1010_2.

[0099] In some embodiments, the terminal plate 1062_1 of the first terminal 1060_1 and a set of protrusions 1066_1 may be integrally formed. In such an example, the set of protrusions 1066_1 may be formed to extend from the terminal plate 1062_1. Further, the second terminal plate 1064 and a set of protrusions 1066_2 may be integrally formed. In such an example, the set of protrusions 1066_2 may be formed to extend from the second terminal plate 1064. With such a configuration, the material cost can be reduced by eliminating the need to separately provide terminals and fixing members for fixing the terminals.

[0100] Each of the set of protrusions 1066_1 and the set of protrusions 1066_2 may include two or more protrusions. Each of the protrusions 1066_1 may be formed along the long side of the terminal plate 1062_1, and each of the protrusions 1066_2 may be formed along the long side of the second terminal plate 1064. By using a plurality of protrusions to fix the first terminal 1060_1 and the second terminal 1060_2, the torque strength of the first terminal 1060_1 and the second terminal 1060_2 is improved (e.g., increased), so that the first terminal 1060_1 and the second terminal 1060_2 can be prevented from bending during the use of the secondary battery or the bending thereof can be substantially reduced. The number of protrusions in the set of protrusions 1066_1 and the set of protrusions 1066_2 may be determined based on the length of the long side of the cover plate 1030 or the length of the long side of the terminal plate 1062_1 and the length of the long side of the second terminal plate 1064. The set of protrusions 1066_1 and the set of protrusions 1066_2 may be formed such that the protrusions of each set are arranged at intervals (e.g., regular intervals). However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0101] The long side of the terminal plate 1062_1 of the first terminal 1060_1 may have a length equal to or greater than one-fourth of the length of the long side of the cover plate 1030. In some examples, the length of the short side of the terminal plate 1062_1 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the cover plate 1030. Similarly, the length of the long side of the first terminal plate 1062_2 of the second terminal 1060_2 and / or the length of the long side of the second terminal plate 1064 may be equal to or greater than one-fourth of the length of the long side of the cover plate 1030. In some examples, the length of the short side of the first terminal plate 1062_2 and / or the length of the short side of the second terminal plate 1064 may be equal to or greater than half of the length of the short side of the cover plate 1030. This allows for improved (e.g., increased) heat dissipation of the secondary battery and reduced heat generation of the secondary battery.

[0102] The first current collector 1010_1, terminal plate 1062_1, and first set of protrusions 1066_1 associated with the first terminal 1060_1 may be formed of the same or substantially the same material. In such an example, the same material may include aluminum (Al) or be made of aluminum (Al) (e.g., entirely made of aluminum (Al)).

[0103] The second current collector 1010_2, second terminal plate 1064, and second set of protrusions 1066_2 associated with the second terminal 1060_2 may be formed of the same or substantially the same material. For example, the second current collector 1010_2, second terminal plate 1064, and second set of protrusions 1066_2 may include copper (Cu) or be made of copper (Cu) (e.g., entirely made of copper).

[0104] The first terminal plate 1062_2 and the second terminal plate 1064 of the second terminal 1060_2 may be formed of different materials. For example, the first terminal plate 1062_2 may include aluminum or be made of aluminum (e.g., entirely made of aluminum).

[0105] In some embodiments, the first terminal plate 1062_2 and the second terminal plate 1064 may be joined together by diffusion welding or cladding welding. This can reduce (e.g., minimize) the deformation of the plates when the first terminal plate 1062_2 and the second terminal plate 1064 are joined. Without limitation, the first terminal plate 1062_2 and the second terminal plate 1064 may be joined to each other in various suitable ways.

[0106] The insulating member 1020_1 may be interposed between the cover plate 1030 and the current collector 1010_1, and the insulating member 1020_2 may be interposed between the cover plate 1030 and the current collector 1010_2. The gasket 1040_1 is disposed between the terminal plate 1062_1 and the insulating member 1020_1 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 1030 through which one of the set of protrusions 1066_1 passes. The gasket 1040_2 is interposed between the second terminal plate 1064 and the insulating member 1020_2 to seal the hollow portion of the cover plate 1030 through which one of the set of protrusions 1066_2 passes. In addition, the upper insulating member 1050_1 may be disposed between the terminal plate 1062_1 and the cover plate 1030, and the upper insulating member 1050_2 may be disposed between the second terminal plate 1064 and the cover plate 1030.

[0107] In some embodiments, Figure 10Each protrusion in a set of protrusions 1066_1 and a set of protrusions 1066_2 may include a first sub-protrusion and a second sub-protrusion. The first sub-protrusion may have a first cross-sectional area and may be formed to extend from each of the terminal plates 1062_1, 1064. The second sub-protrusion may have a second cross-sectional area and may be formed to extend from the first sub-protrusion. In such an example, the first cross-sectional area may be greater than the second cross-sectional area. The terminal plate 1062_1, the first sub-protrusion, and the second sub-protrusion may be integrally formed, and the second terminal plate 1064, the first sub-protrusion, and the second sub-protrusion may also be integrally formed. The first sub-protrusion may be formed to extend through the cover plate 1030. In addition, the first sub-protrusion may be formed to extend through each of the insulating members 1020_1, 1020_2 respectively interposed between the cover plate 1030 and the current collector 1010_1 and between the cover plate 1030 and the current collector 1010_2. The second sub-protrusion may be formed to extend through each of the current collectors 1010_1, 1010_2 that electrically connect the electrode tabs to the terminals 1060_1, 1060_2 respectively.

[0108] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments and drawings showing aspects of the present disclosure, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Within the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents, those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains may make various suitable modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A secondary battery, comprising: Electrode assembly; a housing including an open first surface, the housing being configured to accommodate the electrode assembly; a first cover plate, covering the first surface; a first terminal electrically connected to a first electrode tab of the electrode assembly and configured to penetrate the first cap plate, the first terminal comprising an integrally formed first terminal plate and a first group of protrusions; as well as The second terminal is electrically connected to the second electrode terminal tab of the electrode assembly.

2. The secondary battery according to claim 1, further comprising: a first current collector, electrically connecting the first electrode tab to the first terminal, The first group of protrusions is fixed by allowing the first group of protrusions to penetrate the first cover plate and the first current collector.

3. The secondary battery according to claim 2, wherein: The first current collector, the first terminal plate, and the first group of protrusions are formed of the same material.

4. The secondary battery according to claim 3, wherein The same material is aluminum.

5. The secondary battery according to claim 2, wherein A gasket is located between the first terminal plate and the first current collector to seal a hollow portion of the first cap plate through which the first group of protrusions passes.

6. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The upper insulating member is located between the first terminal plate and the first cover plate.

7. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The first group of protrusions are formed to extend from the first terminal plate.

8. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The protrusions in the first group of protrusions are formed along the long sides of the first terminal plate.

9. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The housing further includes a second surface which is open and opposite to the first surface. Wherein, the secondary battery further includes a second cover plate covering the second surface, wherein the second terminal penetrates the second cover plate, and The length of the long side of the first terminal plate is equal to or greater than half the length of the long side of the first cover plate.

10. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The length of the short side of the first terminal plate is equal to or greater than half the length of the short side of the first cap plate.

11. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein Each protrusion in the first set of protrusions comprises: a first sub-protrusion having a first cross-sectional area and formed to extend from the first terminal plate; and a second sub-protrusion having a second cross-sectional area and formed to extend from the first sub-protrusion, and Wherein, the first cross-sectional area is greater than the second cross-sectional area.

12. The secondary battery according to claim 11, further comprising: a first current collector, electrically connecting the first electrode tab to the first terminal, The first sub-protrusion penetrates the first cover plate, and the second sub-protrusion penetrates the first current collector.

13. The secondary battery according to claim 11, further comprising: a first current collector, electrically connecting the first electrode tab to the first terminal, The second cross-sectional area is defined such that the shortest distance between the long side of the first current collector and the second sub-protrusion is equal to or greater than a minimum welding width.

14. The secondary battery according to claim 11, further comprising: a first current collector, electrically connecting the first electrode tab to the first terminal, The insulating member is located between the first cover plate and the first current collector, and the first sub-protrusion penetrates the insulating member.

15. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The housing further includes a second surface which is open and opposite to the first surface. Wherein, the secondary battery further comprises: a second cover plate, covering the second surface; and a second current collector, electrically connecting the second electrode tab to the second terminal, wherein the second terminal penetrates the second cover plate, The second terminal includes a second group of protrusions, a second terminal plate, and a third terminal plate in contact with the surface of the second terminal plate. wherein the third terminal plate and the second group of protrusions are formed integrally, and The second group of protrusions is fixed by allowing the second group of protrusions to penetrate the second cover plate and the second current collector.

16. The secondary battery according to claim 15, wherein The second terminal plate and the third terminal plate are formed of different materials, wherein the third terminal plate and the second group of protrusions are formed of the same material, and The second group of protrusions and the second current collector are formed of the same material.

17. The secondary battery according to claim 16, wherein The second terminal plate is formed of aluminum, and Wherein, the third terminal plate, the second group of protrusions and the second current collector are formed of copper.

18. The secondary battery according to claim 15, wherein The second terminal plate and the third terminal plate are joined together by diffusion welding or cladding welding.

19. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein The housing further comprises: A first long side wall portion and a second long side wall portion that are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other; and A first short sidewall portion and a second short sidewall portion are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other, and an area of ​​each of the first short sidewall portion and the second short sidewall portion is smaller than an area of ​​each of the first long sidewall portion and the second long sidewall portion.

20. The secondary battery according to claim 1, further comprising: a second current collector electrically connecting the second electrode tab and the second terminal, wherein the second terminal penetrates the first cover plate, The second terminal includes a second group of protrusions, a second terminal plate, and a third terminal plate in contact with the surface of the second terminal plate. wherein the third terminal plate and the second group of protrusions are formed integrally, and The second group of protrusions is fixed by allowing the second group of protrusions to penetrate the first cover plate and the second current collector.

Images